Three for Free

Looking for something special to do but a bit low on funds? Here are three suggestions right in the Metro backyard:

Casting Lessons at Leona Casting Pools at McCrea Park, Carson Ave., next to the south entrance to Highway 13

Always wanted to learn to fish but afraid to try or want to brush up on technique? Experts from the Oakland Casting Club give free casting lessons at one of Oakland's hidden gems. Show up between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month in June and July. Some of the world's best experts will give you lessons in dry and wet fly fishing, bait, spin, spey, two-handed, and distance casting.

If it's sunny, this is also a great place to sit on a bench and watch the casters or meditate or take a walk or have a picnic. Picnic tables and barbecue grills are available. <www.oaklandcastingclub.org>

Stargazing at Chabot Space & Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd., enter rear Observatory Plaza Gate

Wondering just what is overhead these nights? View the skies with refracting telescopes Leah and Rachel, and reflecting telescope Nellie. Chabot's astronomers and members of the Eastbay Astronomy Society are there to help. Friday and Saturday nights, dusk to 10:30 p.m.

The Observatory deck is a great place to sky watch with the naked eye, too, and to see stunning views of the Bay Area. <www.chabotspace.org>

Art Appreciation at Mills College Art Museum, Mills Campus, MacArthur Blvd; stop at the gate for directions

Interested in seeing the work of emerging artists or refreshing your spirit with familiar works? See Japanese prints of the 1923 Kento earthquake from June 17 through August 2. Explore rotating exhibits from the permanent collection of more than 8,000 works of art.

The campus is another jewel in Oakland's crown. It's a perfect place to take a walk. <www.millscollege.edu>